Pangilinan first appeared on the franchise talent-search of ABS-CBN
The X Factor Philippines in 2012, and was part of the Top 20 being eliminated during the "Judges House" episode. He was part of the impersonating competition called
Your Face Sounds Familiar in its 2nd Filipino season where he finished first runner up to winner
Denise Laurel. He also sang some of the theme songs of ABS-CBN's teleseries and Star Cinema movies. He was part of the singing group
Harana together with Marlo Mortel, Bryan Santos and Joseph Marco. He has recorded albums under Star Music, namely self titled album
Michael Panglinan and then
Michael. Since 2018, he has been part of the all-male vocal trio BuDaKhel along with Bugoy Drilon and
Daryl Ong. Besides singing, Pangilinan can play the guitar without taking up formal lessons because his parents are into music. His R&B vocal style was influenced by musicians including
Luke Mejares and
Duncan Ramos. Among his musical influences were
Janno Gibbs,
Jay R and
Brian McKnight. ==Personal life==